By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare – A record-breaking crowd packed into Sakubva Stadium yesterdayas Scottland FC clashed with Manica Diamonds in a tightly contested Premier Soccer League (PSL) fixture that ended in a goalless draw.
For the first time in the history of the venue, the ground was filled to capacity, with supporters still pushing to gain entry up to the end of the first half. The electric atmosphere created a carnival-like scene outside the gates, where police with the assistance of dogs and horses were deployed to control the swelling queues.
It was evident that the crowd had come for Scottland FC, whose growing national fan base continues to surprise football analysts. Despite being the away team, Scottland FC commanded overwhelming support, while Manica Diamonds playing at home failed to fill even a quarter of the stadium.
On the pitch, Manica Diamonds created more scoring chances throughout the match but were left to rue their missed opportunities. The home side dominated possession and frequently pressed forward, but lacked the finishing touch to convert their attacks into goals.
Scottland FC, meanwhile, absorbed the pressure and relied on swift counterattacks, but also struggled to find the back of the net.
The draw sees both teams sharing points, but the bigger story was off the pitch Scottland FC’s surging popularity and the intense atmosphere they brought with them.
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FC Platinum 1–1 Bikita Minerals
Simba Bhora 4–0 Triangle United
MWOS 4–0 Kwekwe United
Herentals 1–0 Ngezi Platinum
Chicken Inn 0–1 GreenFuel
TelOne 1–1 Yadah
With the league heating up and Scottland FC drawing large crowds even on the road, all eyes will be on their next fixture.